Polyploidization in the context of the glacial cycles: a case study from the alpine primerose Primula marginata

Polyploid speciation has played a key role in specie evolution. The majority of newly formed polyploids are expected to extinct, because they are less common, have fewer potential mates or may not be able to compete with co-occurring progenitors. Changes in floral traits and ecological niches have been proposed as important mechanisms to overcome this initial frequency-dependent disadvantage. Recently, it was supposed that other mechanisms like dispersal capability or biogeographical history may enable polyploids to establish and persist. Our aim was to understand the factors that result in the origin, establishment and persistence of P. marginata polyploids.